Review
"Wiped Out!" by The Neighbourhood, released on a whispering autumn wind in 2015, emerges as a fascinating collage of shadowy melodies and introspective lyrics, all wrapped up in the enigma of their sophomore endeavor. The minds behind this auditory landscape include 4e and Justyn Pilbrow, with creative sprinklings from Benny Blanco and the overarching vision guided by The Neighbourhood and Kirk Harding themselves. Despite the divergent opinions that whirl around its reception—a Metacritic score that hums a tune of 53/100—the album undeniably seduces some with its sleek production and hooks that might just leave echoes in your thoughts long after the music stops.
The album dances its way to a peak at number 13 on the US Billboard 200 and claims the throne at the top of the US Top Alternative Albums, marking a milestone as The Neighbourhood's first chart-topping album in this genre. Its emotional spectrum is painted vividly through tracks like the haunting "R.I.P 2 My Youth," which resonates with the angst and reflection of fading innocence, and "Daddy Issues," which later blossomed anew in the fertile grounds of TikTok virality. Beyond its auditory charm, "Wiped Out!" delves into the murky waters of mental turmoil and the cyclic allure of escapism, offering a mirror to those who wander through similar foggy realms. This album, now tinged with the patina of a gold certification, continues to be an intriguing chapter in the evolving narrative of The Neighbourhood, captivating those who dare to swim in its deep, reflective pools. - Harper
